ErrorCodePro · Appliance Error CodesGE Top-load washer Error Code 8 Flashes: Meaning & How to Fix It
By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026
GE top-load washer error code 8 Flashes means: Motor overheated. [1] Keep using it? Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.
Source: GE top-load washer error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].
Quick facts
| Code | 8 Flashes |
|---|---|
| Also shown as | None listed by the manufacturer |
| Brand / appliance | GE top-load washer |
| System | Motor / drive |
| Meaning (service chart) | Motor overheated. [1] |
| Keep using it? | Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair |
| DIY-safe? | Owner checks only (listed below) |
| Support | GE Appliances support (products.geappliances.com) |
| Source document | GE top-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) |
On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ
What error code 8 Flashes means on a GE top-load washer
Motor overheated. [1]
This is a motor / drive code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.
How to fix GE top-load washer error code 8 Flashes (safe owner checks)
- Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (8 Flashes) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your top-load washer and order the right parts.
- Rebalance the load. Reduce the load of laundry if the washer is overloaded.
- Do a power reset. Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker for one minute, then restore power and try again. If the code clears and stays away, it may have been a one-off fault.
- Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If 8 Flashes comes back after these checks, stop using the washer for this function and call a technician, because the remaining causes need meters or part replacement.
The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the GE top-load washer error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.
Parts that may be involved
Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.
- Drive motor
- Drive system components
When to call a technician
- Technician: replace any drive system components that prevent the drive motor from rotating freely.
- If drive systems components are okay, a technician should replace the drive motor.
- Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
- The appliance is under warranty: contact GE Appliances support (products.geappliances.com) first
Related error codes
Frequently asked questions
What does error code 8 Flashes mean on a GE top-load washer?
The GE top-load washer error-code chart lists 8 Flashes as follows: Motor overheated.
Is it safe to keep using the top-load washer with 8 Flashes?
Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair.
Can I fix GE top-load washer error 8 Flashes myself?
Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or GE Appliances support (products.geappliances.com).
Sources
- Sears PartsDirect: GE top-load washer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)
Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with GE.